Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be the first recipient of the Lata Mangeshkar award, instituted by the late legendary singer’s family in her memory. Lata Mangeshkar passed away in February 2022. Modi agreed to accept the award in Bombay on April 24, the 80th death anniversary of Master Dinanath Mangeshkar, Lata’s father.
Lata Mangeshkar’s brother, Hridaynath Mangeshkar, told media persons yesterday (11th April), “The Mangeshkar family has decided to institute a separate award in Lata didi’s name along with the annual Master Dinanath Mangeshkar awards, to be presented to doyens in the fields of public service, sports, theatre, cinema and literature. We are happy that the Prime Minister has agreed to attend the event and personally accept the Lata Mangeshkar award, which is being given to him in recognition of his great service to the nation.” Lata Mangeshkar’s sister, Usha Mangeshkar, will present the award.
It may be mentioned here that the PM is a great admirer of Lata Mangeshkar and her work and he flew down to attend her funeral at Shivaji Park in Bombay on 6th February. The veteran singer too used to hold the PM in high esteem.